European Heritage Open Days has a host of exciting events, must-see attractions and a range of experiences to get out and enjoy

Lower Lough Erne is one of the most dramatic natural landscapes in Northern Ireland

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Ever wanted to see some of our country's famous heritage sites, including some of those made famous on the big screen and all for free? Well, now is your chance.

This weekend, the European Heritage Open Days (EHOD), has a host of exciting events, must-see attractions and a range of experiences to get out and enjoy, and all for free.

Tourism Northern Ireland has detailed just some of the great things families, couples, groups and people of all ages can get out and enjoy across the country.

Pauline Gormley, Tourism NIs Destination PR Officer, said: “Northern Ireland is set to become a hive of activity on September 12 and 13 when European Heritage Open Days unlock the doors to the past and present, allowing the public free entry to loads of different and fun places.”

Last year over 75,000 visitors enjoyed EHOD and the 400 plus properties and events that were available at no charge.

This year promises to be just as successful as visitors of all ages enjoy events that celebrate Northern Ireland’s rich Industrial Heritage, our filming locations, food, craft and look out for some great children’s events too.

Pauline continued: “Some properties are open for the EHOD weekend only so this is a truly unique opportunity to explore the excellent cultural and built heritage that would never usually be accessible to the public.”

There will be various film-themed events ranging from talks given by location managers who worked on productions such as The Fall, to interesting screenings put together from the BBC Archive.

One for the kids and not to be missed is the Sparticle Mystery which will be screened in the Crumlin Road Gaol, where it was actually filmed.

Firm favourites like the Ulster Fry, stew and champ will be represented as well as traditional baking, fishing and farming in Northern Ireland.

Here are a few of the events to look out for:

Living History

Pogues Entry Historical Cottage

Childhood home of Dr. Alexander Irvine, author of ‘My Lady of the Chimney Corner’, Pogues Entry Cottage in Antrim has been preserved to give a rare insight into how Irish working class families lived in the latter half of the nineteenth century and EHOD will bring the cottage alive with living history and craft displays!

The Lock Keeper’s Cottage, Lock No. 3 and the Industry Barge

On September 12 and 13 heritage guides and staff will be available both in the cottage and on the barge to tell the stories of the Lagan Navigation. The stories include details about past industries such as linen, transportation on the waterways as well as the lives of the people who worked there. Worksheets and jigsaws will be available on the barge for children.

Walking tours

Shirt Factories of Derry - Walking Tour

Join local conservation architect, Manus Deery on a walking tour of the former shirt-factories of Derry. The tour will include the site of Tillie and Henderson, Abercorn Factory, Welch Margetson (Carlisle House), via the City Walls and Bishop Street, to Castle Street to Hogg and Mitchell (Strand Factory) and the City Factory. Booking Essential - tel: EHOD 028 9054 3022.

Meelmore Water Tower – Guided Walk

Explore three water or summit towers which form part of the 22 mile Mourne Wall (1904 –1922) that was built to mark the water catchment area for the Silent Valley. This guided walk visits the tower on the summit of Slieve Meelmore, taking in remnants of the granite industry whilst also linking to the story of the Silent Valley and water collection. Booking essential - tel: 028 437 67391.

Wildlife watching

Copeland Bird Observatory

Visit Copeland Bird Observatory situated on Old Lighthouse Island and host to many breeding birds, seals and even an occasional otter. On a guided walk you will see the local wildlife, old lighthouses and the keeper’s cottages. Booking essential - email: ianhumphreys@keepnorthernirelandbeautiful.org.

Crom

Lower Lough Erne is one of the most dramatic natural landscapes in Northern Ireland.

Crom, set in the tranquil Upper Lough Erne, is one of Ireland’s most important conservation areas. There are few places which have more magical scenery or such a wealth of rare species. Visit the estate and discover the ancient yew trees and relax in the lakeside Summer House. You can rent one of Crom’s expanding fleet of boats to explore Crom from the waterways and visit the Orchard Tearoom to feast on delicious homemade lunches and snacks. Free entry to the estate on Saturday September 12.